Please help out a very new mac user!

Question

So I haven't used this laptop in awhile been overseas. Never really did get my head around it anyway(A bit dumb when it comes to computers).
Ok I am currently on dial-up with TPG till ADSL goes through next week. I am using V10.2.8.
Now
#1
I want to wipe the hard disk, clear everything(My little bro
has been using it and it's all out of wack and littered with **** stuff) I have 2.56GB free and have used 37.25 GB.
#2
I want to update it with the latest operating software. I was trying to do it before but besides it taken so slow, I thought I read somewhere that I needed 10.3.?.
#3
Also how do I have an email account with mac? Is that through ".Mac" and hence I have to pay for it?
I am about to use about macs everyday and want to get very serious about it but please dumb it down for me and help me out.
Thanks, any advice appreciated
LUKE

Answer 1

Welcome To Discussions LambLoinChops!
If there is any data on the Mac, that you wish to retain, be sure to back it up before upgrading!
And some additional info.
Mac OS X Versions 10.1, 10.2, 10.3, and 10.4, are complete system upgrades that must be purchased.
The point upgrades, such as 10.1.x to 10.1.5 (Final) 10.2.x to 10.2.8 (Final), 10.3.x to 10.3.9 (Final), and 10.4.x to 10.4.8 (Pending), can be downloaded for free.
Tiger is available for purchase at The Apple Store (U.S.).
Panther, is no longer available directly from the Apple Online Store, as Tiger 10.4.x is the most up to date OS.
A Full Retail Version, of the Panther Install CDs, or a Full Retail Version, of the Tiger Install DVD, can be purchased rather inexpensively, at some online Apple retailers, Amazon, eBay, AppleRescue, FastMac, etc.
Be sure not to purchase grey, upgrade or machine specific CDs or DVDs.
Panther is only on CDs, not DVDs.
Additional info in these links.
Using OS X Install CDs/DVDs On Multiple Macs
What's A Computer Specific Mac OS X Release
Software Update, Upgrade: What's The Difference?
Before upgrading to any OS X version, check to see if your Mac needs a Firmware Update.
If one is required, you must start the computer from a Mac OS 8 or Mac OS 9 System Folder on the computer's hard disk, not from a CD, in order to install it.
As Jaguar 10.2.x is installed, this has already been done.
Once Panther 10.3.x is installed, you can use the 10.3.9 Combo Update, to upgrade to the final version.
If your Mac meets the System Requirements for Tiger, you could also consider installing that.
And then use the PPC 10.4.8 Combo Update.
Panther System Requirements
Additional Panther System Requirements
Tiger System Requirements
Mac Model Compatibility & Requirements For OS X
Additionally,
"Tiger ships on a DVD, but if your Mac doesn’t have a built-in DVD-ROM player, you’ll need CD media. When you buy Mac OS X Tiger, you qualify to purchase Tiger CDs for only $9.95."
Download The Order Form Here. Media Exchange Program
Shop Carefully, Examine All Documentation, And Good Luck!
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